HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR DENTAL INSURANCE NOW
When was the last time you went to the dentist? If you paid for your dental insurance plan, you want to make the most of it. Not using your benefits can result in higher premiums. It’s time to look at your dental insurance plan to see if you have any unused benefits that you can use before the end of the year. Here are some tips to take advantage of your plan.
Know Your Plan’s Annual Maximum
Some dental insurances come with an annual maximum. It shows you the maximum amount that your insurance pays for dental care each year. According to the American Dental Association, these amounts can vary between $1,000 and $3,000. Find out your plan’s annual maximum limit and how much you have left before the year is over.
With this information in mind, you can schedule an appointment for dental work. Take advantage of those unused benefits to save money on dental procedures. It’s hard to schedule for emergency dental care or unplanned procedures, but making use of them can quickly use up your plan’s annual maximum amount.
Use Your Flexible Spending Account
Some employers offer dental insurance benefits. If you have a dental plan through your employer, you may have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). These are monetary benefits from your employer that cover out-of-pocket costs. FSA benefits last for the duration of your benefit period.
If you have FSA, spend it on outstanding bills, co-payments, prescription medications, deductibles, or out-of-pocket costs for dental work. Don’t let your FSA benefits to expire since they allow you to save money on any dental expenses. Don’t confuse your FSA with your HSA, which is your health savings account. The money in your HSA never expire.
Understand Your Plan’s Annual Changes
Take a good look at your dental plan and it’s annual changes. You should make note of any changes in your co-payments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. You should make note of any changes if you’re changing providers, or if your current insurance updated your plan.
Understand what benefits are leftover for the remaining year. Determine which benefits will change or will be included with your plan the following year. Understanding your plan can greatly improve your oral health. It can also save you money on costly procedures and treatments.